SPRING 2025
Megan Rylaarsdam, 2025 Beef Ambassador
Four area teens serve as Rock-Nobles Beef Ambassadors BY CHLOE FARNSWORTH The Globe
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ORTHINGTON — Claire Knobloch, Aubrey Van Belle, Myranda Widboom, and Megan Rylaarsdam are several months into their role as beef ambassadors for the Rock-Nobles Cattlemen Association, and are eager to promote the beef industry. Anna Haas, the ambassador coordinator, said beef ambassadors do not have to come from a farm. “We just want anybody that is passionate about the beef industry,” she said. “And loves to eat beef.” A beef ambassador’s job is to spread the word about beef in the industry, not only to peers in their own schools, but to surrounding communities and the ultimate consumer. Haas explained they can have anywhere from two to four individuals serve as
ambassadors each year, but typically have four because there are a lot of things they do throughout the year, especially in the summer.
She added that the four young women serving as Rock-Nobles beef ambassadors were chosen because they were enthusiastic individuals.
Summer activities include parades where they pass out beef sticks, county fairs, a golf outing, and more. This year's golf outing is June 17 at the Adrian Country Club, during which there is free golfing for members of the Rock-Nobles Cattlemen’s Association as well as the Nobles County Corn and Soybean Growers Association.
“We knew that they would get the job done and do whatever we asked of them and do it with a positive attitude and a smile on their face,” Haas said.
The ambassadors also help serve at the Minnesota State Cattlemen’s biggest fundraiser, Farm Fest, in Redwood Falls. They serve 15,000 ribeye sandwiches, so they need all the help they can get.
“We selected her to do a second term because of her dedication,” Haas said. “If you needed someone to show up and do the work, she was always there. And that’s what we are looking for with these candidates.”
“They pretty much are just our right-hand people to help promote beef at various events throughout the year,” Haas said.
With lots of weekend events, parades, and other summer activities, the four
Knobloch is a returning ambassador, having also represented the beef industry last year.
Beef Ambassadors: 6
Claire Knobloch, 2024 and 2025 Beef Ambassador